Our first Vanier College Intern came in 2012, and started the ACER forest plot. This project follows Smithsonian Institution protocols to inventory, then monitor forests, using 1 hectare plots.

In January 2013 we received 4 interns, who worked hard to develop this project. They also assisted with mammal, shorebird and plant phenology projects, and delivered presentations at local hotels, highlighting their studies and their relationship with local and global conservation issues.

These students come from the Vanier College Environmental and Wildlife Management program.

Derek - Intern 2013

Four weeks into our internship and the ACER project is finally coming together. After spending a few weeks in the forest, we've become rather accustomed to this fascinating new ecosystem.

Each day is spent getting to know the numerous tree species that thrive within this unique habitat. Although we are now quite familiar with our project duties, we are constantly stumbling upon fascinating new discoveries. Whether it's the howler monkeys scolding us from the forest canopy or the snakes slithering through the leaves, Cano Palma never ceases to amaze.

With two weeks left at the station, there is a lot of work to be done, but we look forward to all of the upcoming experiences and to the arrival of the new volunteers and interns. We could not have asked for a more rewarding internship.